U.S. patent number 8,771,033 [Application Number 12/797,921] was granted by the patent office on 2014-07-08 for mobile for infant support structure.
This patent grant is currently assigned to Mattel, Inc.. The grantee listed for this patent is Robert M. Goszewski, David E. Moomaw, Patrick J. Murphy. Invention is credited to Robert M. Goszewski, David E. Moomaw, Patrick J. Murphy.
United States Patent |
8,771,033 |
Goszewski , et al. |
July 8, 2014 |
**Please see images for:
( Certificate of Correction ) ** |
Mobile for infant support structure
Abstract
A mobile mountable to an infant support structure includes a
housing having a drive mechanism, a support arm extending from the
housing, and an assembly supported from the support arm. The
support arm is connected to the drive mechanism and movable
relative to the housing in first and second opposite directions.
The assembly includes a hub, a motion portion, and a hanging
portion. The motion portion has a resilient component coupled to
the hanging portion, which drives the hanging portion in a third
direction when the support arm moves in the first direction.
Inventors: |
Goszewski; Robert M. (Depew,
NY), Murphy; Patrick J. (East Aurora, NY), Moomaw; David
E. (East Aurora, NY) |
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Goszewski; Robert M.
Murphy; Patrick J.
Moomaw; David E. |
Depew
East Aurora
East Aurora |
NY
NY
NY |
US
US
US |
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|
Assignee: |
Mattel, Inc. (El Segundo,
CA)
|
Family
ID: |
43354742 |
Appl.
No.: |
12/797,921 |
Filed: |
June 10, 2010 |
Prior Publication Data
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Document
Identifier |
Publication Date |
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US 20100323581 A1 |
Dec 23, 2010 |
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Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
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61187783 |
Jun 17, 2009 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
446/227 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63H
33/006 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
A63H
33/00 (20060101) |
Field of
Search: |
;446/238,227-229,484 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Other References
International Preliminary Report on Patentability for
PCT/US2010/038272, dated Dec. 20, 2011, 6 pages. cited by applicant
.
International Search Report for PCT/US2010/038272, dated Feb. 7,
2011, 3 pages. cited by applicant.
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Primary Examiner: Kim; Gene
Assistant Examiner: Hylinski; Alyssa
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Edell, Shapiro & Finnan,
LLC
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A mobile comprising: a housing supported by an infant support
structure, the housing including a drive mechanism; a support arm
extending from the housing, the support arm being connected to the
drive mechanism and movable relative to the housing in a first
direction and in a second direction, the second direction being
opposite to the first direction; and an assembly supported from the
support arm, the assembly including a hub, a motion portion, and a
hanging portion, the motion portion having at least one resilient
component coupled to the hanging portion, the at least one
resilient component driving the hanging portion in a third
direction when the support arm moves in the first direction, the
third direction being different than the first direction and the
second direction.
2. The mobile of claim 1, wherein the at least one resilient
component is configured not to drive the hanging portion when the
support arm moves in the second direction.
3. The mobile of claim 1, wherein the at least one resilient
component includes a first resilient component and a second
resilient component, each of the resilient components is coupled to
the hanging portion, the first resilient component driving the
hanging portion in the third direction when the support arm moves
in the first direction, the second resilient component driving the
hanging portion in the third direction when the support arm moves
in the second direction.
4. The mobile of claim 1, wherein the hub includes an engagement
surface, the at least one resilient component includes a spring
having an outwardly extending end, the outwardly extending end
being engageable with the engagement surface.
5. The mobile of claim 4, wherein the engagement surface is a first
engagement surface and the hub includes a second engagement
surface, the first engagement surface being spaced apart from the
second engagement surface, the spring end extending between the
first engagement surface and the second engagement surface.
6. The mobile of claim 5, wherein the outwardly extending spring
end engages the first engagement surface when the support arm moves
in the first direction, and the spring end moves away from the
first engagement surface when the support arm moves in the second
direction.
7. The mobile of claim 1, wherein the at least one resilient
component includes a first spring and a second spring, the first
spring has an end portion extending away from the hanging portion
and the second spring has an end portion extending away from the
hanging portion, the second spring end portion extending in a
direction substantially opposite to the direction in which the
first spring end portion extends.
8. The mobile of claim 7, wherein movement of the support arm in
the first direction causes one of the first spring and the second
spring to change its configuration.
9. The mobile of claim 8, wherein the change in configuration of
the one of the first spring and the second spring causes the
hanging portion to move in the third direction.
10. The mobile of claim 7, wherein movement of the support arm in
the first direction causes the first spring to change its
configuration, movement of the support arm in the second direction
causes the second spring to change its configuration, and the
change in configuration of each of the first spring and the second
spring causing rotation of the hanging portion in the third
direction.
11. A mobile comprising: a housing including a drive mechanism; a
support arm extending from the housing, the support arm being
connected to the drive mechanism and movable relative to the
housing in a first direction and in a second direction; and an
assembly supported from the support arm, the assembly including a
hub, a motion portion, and a hanging portion, the motion portion
having a resilient mechanism coupled to the hanging portion, the
resilient mechanism moving the hanging portion in a third direction
when the support arm moves in the first direction and moving the
hanging portion in the third direction when the support arm moves
in the second direction, the third direction being different than
the first direction and the second direction.
12. The mobile of claim 11, wherein the resilient mechanism
includes a first spring member and a second spring member.
13. The mobile of claim 12, wherein the first spring member has an
end extending from the hanging portion and the second spring member
has an end extending from the hanging portion in a direction
substantially opposite to the direction in which the first spring
member end extends.
14. The mobile of claim 13, wherein the hub includes a first pair
of engagement surfaces and a second pair of engagement surfaces,
the end of the first spring member is engageable with the first
pair of engagement surfaces, and the end of the second spring
member is engageable with the second pair of engagement surfaces.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent
Application Ser. No. 61/187,783, entitled "Mobile for Infant
Support Structure," filed Jun. 17, 2009, the disclosure of which is
incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to toy entertainment devices, and in
particular, to mobile toy devices that mount to a crib or other
infant support structure.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Infants develop by interacting with their surrounding environment.
Sensory stimuli are an infant's first sources of learning. For
example, seeing moving elements fosters development of visual
tracking skills, and listening to music and sounds stimulates
auditory skills.
Consequently, toys are often developed to create an interactive,
sensory stimulating experience for an infant. For example, mobiles
aid the development of an infant by improving vision and
eye-tracking skills. When an infant focuses on an object suspended
from a mobile, visual tracking skills are stimulated. In addition,
it is believed that music and sounds generated by the toys enhance
listening skills and inspire creative thinking.
Some mobiles include rotatable elements to enhance sensory
stimulation. Movement of the rotatable elements may be activated by
a wind-up mechanism or powered by a motor. However, such mobiles
only provide for movement about a single stationary axis. It would
be desirable to provide a mobile that increases the developmental
potential of an infant by providing an additional level of visual
tracking stimulation.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a mobile mountable to an infant
support structure, such as a crib. In one embodiment, the mobile
has a housing supported by the infant support structure, and
includes a drive mechanism. A support arm extends from the housing.
The support arm is connected to the drive mechanism and movable
relative to the housing in a first direction and in a second
direction, the second direction being opposite to the first
direction. An assembly is supported from the support arm, and
includes a hub, a motion portion, and a hanging portion. The motion
portion has at least one resilient component coupled to the hanging
portion. The resilient component drives the hanging portion in a
third direction when the support arm moves in the first direction,
the third direction being different than the first direction and
the second direction.
In one embodiment, the at least one resilient component is
configured not to drive the hanging portion when the support arm
moves in the second direction.
In one embodiment, the motion portion includes a first resilient
component and a second resilient component. Each of the resilient
components is coupled to the hanging portion. The first resilient
component drives the hanging portion in the third direction when
the support arm moves in the first direction, and the second
resilient component drives the hanging portion in the third
direction when the support arm moves in the second direction.
In one embodiment, the hub includes an engagement surface, and the
resilient component includes a spring having an outwardly extending
end engageable with the engagement surface.
In one embodiment, the hub includes a first engagement surface and
a second engagement surface, the first engagement surface being
spaced apart from the second engagement surface. The resilient
component includes a spring having an outwardly extending end
extending between the first and second engagement surfaces. The
outwardly extending spring end engages the first engagement surface
when the support arm moves in the first direction, and the spring
end moves away from the first engagement surface when the support
arm moves in the second direction.
In one embodiment, the resilient component includes a first spring
and a second spring. The first spring has an end portion extending
away from the hanging portion and the second spring has an end
portion extending away from the hanging portion. The second spring
end portion extends in a direction substantially opposite to the
direction in which the first spring end portion extends.
In one embodiment, movement of the support arm in the first
direction causes one of the first and second springs to change its
configuration. The change in configuration of the one of the first
and second springs causes the hanging portion to move in the third
direction.
In one embodiment, movement of the support arm in the first
direction causes the first spring to change its configuration, and
movement of the support arm in the second direction causes the
second spring to change its configuration. The change in
configuration of each of the first and second springs causes
rotation of the hanging portion in the third direction.
In another embodiment, a mobile includes a housing having a drive
mechanism, a support arm extending from the housing and connected
to the drive mechanism, and an assembly supported from the support
arm. The support arm is movable relative to the housing in a first
direction and in a second direction. The assembly includes a hub, a
motion portion, and a hanging portion. The motion portion has a
resilient mechanism coupled to the hanging portion. The resilient
mechanism moves the hanging portion in a third direction when the
support arm moves in the first direction, and the resilient member
moves the hanging portion in the third direction when the support
arm moves in the second direction. The third direction is different
than the first direction and the second direction.
In one embodiment, the resilient mechanism includes a first spring
member and a second spring member. The first spring member has an
end extending from the hanging portion, and the second spring
member has an end extending from the hanging portion in a direction
substantially opposite to the direction in which the first spring
member end extends.
In one embodiment, the hub includes a first pair of engagement
surfaces and a second pair of engagement surfaces. The end of the
first spring member is engageable with the first pair of engagement
surfaces, and the end of the second spring member is engageable
with the second pair of engagement surfaces.
The present invention also relates to an entertainment device
including a base, a support movably coupled to the base, and an
entertainment mechanism coupled to the support and movable relative
thereto. The entertainment mechanism includes an actuator having a
first configuration. The actuator changes its configuration to a
second configuration when the actuator engages the support as the
support moves relative to the base. The change in configuration of
the actuator causes movement of the entertainment mechanism
relative to the support.
In one embodiment, the support includes a first engagement surface
and a second engagement surface. The engagement surfaces define an
area therebetween, and the actuator extends into the area between
the engagement surfaces. The actuator changes its configuration
when the actuator engages one of the engagement surfaces.
In one embodiment, the entertainment mechanism includes a body
portion, and the actuator is mounted on the body portion. The
actuator in its first configuration is moveable relative to the
body portion, and the actuator in its second configuration is
movable with the body portion.
In one embodiment, the body portion has an outer surface, and the
actuator is placed around part of the body portion outer surface.
The actuator in its first configuration is spaced apart from the
outer surface of the body portion, and the actuator in its second
configuration grips the outer surface of the body portion.
In one embodiment, the actuator is a first actuator and the
entertainment mechanism includes a second actuator. The second
actuator changes its configuration when the second actuator engages
the support. The change in configuration of the first actuator
causes the entertainment mechanism to rotate relative to the
support. The change in configuration of the second actuator causes
the entertainment mechanism to rotate relative to the support.
In one embodiment, each of the first and second actuators is a
resilient member.
In one embodiment, the base includes a drive mechanism. The support
is coupled to the drive mechanism and movable by the drive
mechanism relative to the base.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a
mobile according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a mobile mounted to a
support structure and including a housing, a support arm, and an
entertainment assembly according to an embodiment of the
invention.
FIG. 3 illustrates a front view of the housing and a portion of the
support arm of the mobile illustrated in FIG. 2.
FIG. 4 illustrates a rear view of the housing and a portion of the
support arm illustrated in FIG. 3.
FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of some of the components of
the housing and portions of the support arm.
FIG. 6 illustrates a rear perspective view of the housing and a
portion of the support arm illustrated in FIG. 2.
FIG. 7 illustrates a front view of the mobile illustrated in FIG. 2
showing an internal cavity of the housing and components
therein.
FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of the housing illustrated in
FIG. 7 showing a first half of the housing separated from a second
half of the housing.
FIG. 9 illustrates a top view of the housing and a portion of the
support arm.
FIG. 10 illustrates a fragmentary sectional side view of some of
the components of the housing.
FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of some of the components of
the assembly including portions of a hub, portions of a motion
portion, and portions of a hanging portion
FIG. 12 illustrates an assembly view of some of the components of
the hub, motion portion, and hanging portion.
FIG. 13A illustrates a sectional top view of some of the components
of the hub and motion portion in a first orientation.
FIG. 13B illustrates a sectional top view of some of the components
of the hub and motion portion in a second orientation.
FIG. 13C illustrates a sectional top view of some of the components
of the hub and motion portion in a third orientation.
FIG. 14 illustrates a sectional side view of some of the components
of the assembly.
Like reference numerals have been used to identify like elements
throughout this disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The terms "support" or "support structure" are used to refer to any
frame or support that is configured to provide support for an
object. The term "infant support structure" can be used to refer to
any frame or support that can be used to support an infant in a
stationary manner or in a moving manner. Some exemplary infant
support structures are cribs, bassinets, playards, jumping devices,
bouncers, infant seats, etc. The terms "child" and "infant" may be
used interchangeably herein.
Further, it is to be understood that terms such as "left," "right,"
"top," "bottom," "front," "rear," "side," "height," "length,"
"width," "upper," "lower," "interior," "exterior," "inner," "outer"
and the like as may be used herein, merely describe points or
portions of reference and do not limit the present invention to any
particular orientation or configuration. Further, terms such as
"first," "second," "third," etc., merely identify one of a number
of portions, components and/or points of reference as disclosed
herein, and do not limit the present invention to any particular
configuration or orientation.
Referring to FIG. 1, a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of
a mobile 10 according to the present invention is illustrated. In
this embodiment, the mobile 10 includes a housing 12 mountable to
an infant support structure, such as a frame of a crib, a support
arm 14 extending from the housing 12, and an entertainment assembly
16 supported from the support arm 14.
The support arm 14 is moveable in a first direction shown by arrow
D1, and moveable in a second opposite direction shown by arrow D2.
The support arm 14 is moveable in the first direction D1 to a first
position 18, and moveable in the second direction D2 to a second
position 20 (shown in phantom). Thus, the support arm 14 is
pivotally moveable between the first and second positions 18,
20.
As the support arm 14 moves in the first direction D1 to the first
position 18, the entertainment assembly 16 likewise moves in the
first direction D1 given it is supported from the support arm 14.
As the support arm 14 moves in the second direction D2 to the
second position 20, the entertainment assembly 16 moves in the
second direction D2.
The entertainment assembly 16 includes a hanging portion 22 that
moves in a third direction D3 when the support arm 14 moves in the
first direction D1. Preferably, the hanging portion 22 rotates
about an axis A1 in the third direction D3 when the support arm 14
moves in the first direction D1 to the first position 18.
Alternatively or in addition, the hanging portion 22 may rotate
about axis A1 in the third direction D3 when the support arm 14
moves in the second direction D2 to the second position 20. Thus,
the hanging portion 22 rotates about axis A1 in the third direction
D3 as the assembly 16 pivots back and forth between the first and
second positions 18, 20.
Referring to FIG. 2, an embodiment of a mobile 10A according to the
present invention is illustrated. The mobile 10A includes a housing
100 mountable to an infant support structure S, a support arm 200
extending from the housing 100, and an assembly 300 supported from
the support arm 200. As described in greater detail below, the
assembly 300 includes support bars 352 and 362, several connectors
360, and hanging elements 358.
Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the housing 100 includes a front face
102, an opposite rear face 104, and sidewall 106 extending
therebetween. In one embodiment, housing 100 is configured as first
and second portions or halves 110, 112, as shown in FIG. 5. The
first housing portion 110 includes front face 102 and a first
portion of sidewall 106a. The second housing portion 112 includes
rear face 104 and a second portion of sidewall 106b. The first
portion of sidewall 106a slides over and is secured to the second
portion of sidewall 106b, thereby defining a cavity 114 between
first and second faces 102, 104.
The front face 102 may include one or more actuators operably
coupled to a control unit disposed within the cavity 114 and
configured to control sensory output. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the
front face 102 includes two actuators 116, 118. Each actuator 116,
118 may be coupled to a switch capable of sending a signal to the
control unit, described in further detail below. For example,
actuator 116 may be operable as a mode switch configured to control
pivotal motion of the support arm 200 and/or to control musical
output from an associated speaker. As shown, the front face 102
includes a perforated speaker grill 120 aligned with the speaker to
optimize sound emission to the infant. Actuator 118 may be operable
as a light switch to control an illumination pattern of the housing
100. Thus, the housing 100 may include one or more light sources
(not shown) adapted to project light through translucent portions
on the front face 102 and/or portion(s) of the sidewall 106. The
light source may comprise, but is not limited to, light emitting
diodes (LEDs) and/or grain of wheat bulbs (GOWs). By way of
specific example, a light source may be aligned with and project
through the support arm 200, which may have a tubular configuration
with one or more translucent and/or transparent portions, or may be
entirely translucent or transparent. Alternatively or in addition,
light sources may be provided behind actuators 116, 118, and/or
other portions of face 102, which include translucent and/or
transparent portions. Actuators 116, 118 are illustrated as
depressible actuators having stylized configurations of a fish and
a starfish, respectively. Such configurations are exemplary only.
Moreover, other types of actuators may be provided, such as sliding
actuators, rotatable actuators, etc.
In addition to stylized actuators 116, 118, front face 102 may also
include other stylized figures or patterns appealing to infants.
For example, the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3 includes a
caricature of an octopus 121. The mobile 10A may include stylized
patterns, caricatures and colors representing a specific theme,
such as an underwater theme.
In addition or alternative to actuators 116, 118, one or more
actuators operably coupled to the control unit may be provided on
the sidewall 106. As illustrated in FIG. 6, two additional
actuators 140, 142 are provided on sidewall 106, each of which is
coupled to a switch capable of sending a signal to the control
unit. For example, actuator 140 may be operable as a power switch
that activates or deactivates a power source. Actuator 142 may be
operable as a volume control switch configured to control the
volume of audio output via the speaker 120. Accordingly, the
housing 100 may include a speaker and associated audio components
(not shown) configured for sound emission.
Any conventional control unit may be provided within the cavity 114
of the housing 100, such as the electronics assembly disclosed in
U.S. Patent Publication No. 2006/0199468, the disclosure of which
is incorporated herein by reference. The control unit may be
operably coupled to each of the actuators, the speaker, the motor,
light sources, and/or other sensory output mechanisms provided
within the housing 100. The control unit may comprise, but is not
limited to, microcontrollers, microprocessors, and integrated
circuits. The control unit may be configured to not only recognize
signals generated by the various switches, but also to generate and
control the operational output of the sensory output generating
devices (e.g. sound effects, verbal messages, music, motion, and
light patterns).
Referring to FIGS. 4 and 6, the rear face 104 may include a
securing mechanism for mounting the mobile 10A on an infant support
structure S, for example a crib rail. As shown, the securing
mechanism includes a mounting portion 122 having a ledge 124
extending outwardly from an upper portion 126 of the rear face 104.
The ledge 124 is configured to abut the top rail of the crib, as
best shown in FIG. 6. Upper straps 128, 130 are secured to and
extend outwardly from the upper portion 126. A lower strap 132 is
secured to and extends outwardly from a lower portion 134 of the
rear face 104. The distal ends of straps 128, 130 are releaseably
securable to the distal end of lower strap 132 via a buckle 136,
such as a side release interlocking buckle. In this way, the straps
128, 130, 132 may encircle the crib rail, thereby securing the
housing 100 thereto.
It should be understood that the specific configuration of the
securing mechanism described and illustrated above is exemplary
only. For example, an upper strap portion may be formed as a single
strap as opposed to the two straps as discussed above. In
alternative embodiments, a threaded engagement post may be
provided, which extends outwardly from the rear face 104 and
couples with an internally threaded gripping member so that the
crib rails are clamped between the rear face 104 and the gripping
member. Alternative securing mechanisms may include hooks and
clips, a combination of hook and loop type materials, as well as
other conventional fastening mechanisms.
The rear face 104 may further include a compartment 137 (shown in
FIGS. 7 and 8) extending into the cavity 114, and a cover 138
adapted to extend over the compartment 137. The compartment 137 may
be adapted to house a power source such as a battery or multiple
batteries. The cover 138 may be secured to the rear face 104 using
conventional fasteners such as screws. The cover 138 is preferably
flush with the surface of the lower portion 134 when secured
thereto.
Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the housing 100 further includes a
drive mechanism 144 disposed within the cavity 114. The drive
mechanism 144 includes a gear arrangement 146 driven by an
associated motor 148. The motor 148 is coupled to and powered by a
power source, such as batteries disposed within the compartment ent
137. Alternatively, the drive mechanism 144 may be powered by an
associated AC adapter and power cord connected to a power source
(e.g. an electrical outlet). The support arm 200 is coupled to the
drive mechanism 144, so that actuation of the drive mechanism 144
causes pivotal motion of the support arm 200 relative to the
housing 100 in the first and second directions D1, D2.
Support arm 200 includes a first end portion 202 disposed within
the cavity 114, a central portion 204 extending outwardly from a
slot 150 (shown in FIG. 9) disposed in the sidewall 106, and an
opposite second end portion 206 attached to the assembly 300
(described in detail below). As shown in FIG. 9, the slot 150 has a
width W1 slightly larger than the width W2 of the portion of
support arm 200 extending therethrough, and a length L1 greater
than the width W2 of the portion of the support arm 200 extending
therethrough. Preferably, the slot 150 is disposed at an apex 152
of sidewall 106.
The first end portion 202 of support arm 200 is connected to the
housing 100 within the cavity 114 via a pivot shaft 208. The pivot
shaft 208 extends through a corresponding opening (shown in phantom
in FIG. 10) in the first end portion 202. As shown, opposite ends
210, 212 of the pivot shaft 208 extend outwardly from the support
arm 200, and are received and secured within engagement members
154, 156 extending from the interior surfaces of front and rear
faces 102, 104, respectively. The pivot shaft 208 defines a pivot
point, whereby the support arm 200 is pivotally moveable about a
longitudinal axis of the pivot shaft 208 in the first and second
directions D1, D2. The first end portion 202 of the support arm 200
also preferably includes a pin 214 extending outwardly therefrom
and intermediate the pivot shaft 208 and a distal end 216 of the
support arm 200.
The gear arrangement 146 is configured for rotating a pin 158 about
a circumferential path. Pin 158 is coupled to pin 214 via a linkage
160 (shown in FIG. 7), thereby coupling the drive mechanism 144 to
the support arm 200. Actuation of the gear arrangement 146 causes
the pin 158 to rotate about its circumferential path, which in turn
causes the linkage 160 to push and pull the pin 214 of the first
end portion 202. The support arm 200 is pivoted in the first
direction D1 as pin 214 is pushed by the linkage 160, and then
pivoted in the second direction D2 as pin 214 is pulled by the
linkage 160. Thus, the support arm 200 oscillates back and forth in
the first and second directions D1, D2 as pin 158 traverses its
circumferential path.
Referring to FIGS. 2 and 7, the central portion 204 of the support
arm 200 may have an arcuate configuration, so that the second end
portion 206 lies on a plane spaced from the plane on which the
front face 102 lies. In this way, the assembly 300 may be
positioned over an infant lying in the support structure S when the
housing 100 is secured to the support structure S (e.g. the crib
rail). Alternatively, the support arm 200 may be substantially
linear, extending outwardly from the housing 100 at an angle
relative to the plane on which the front face 102 lies.
Alternatively, the support arm 200 may include two or more linear
portions angularly disposed relative to each other. In any event,
the second end portion 206 and thus assembly 300 are preferably
disposed outwardly from the plane on which the front face 102
lies.
Referring to FIGS. 7 and 11, assembly 300 includes a hub 302, a
motion portion 304, and a hanging portion 306. Referring to FIG.
12, the motion portion 304 includes a drive shaft 308 having a
first end 310 rotatably coupled to the hub 302, a central portion
312 extending downwardly through a chamber 314 provided within the
hub 302, and an opposite second end 316. The first end 310 may be
coupled to the hub 302 via a flanged sleeve 318, which is rotatably
seated within a ring member 320. Thus, the coupling between the
flanged sleeve 318 and the ring member 320 allow for rotational
movement of the drive shaft 308 about its longitudinal axis and
relative to the hub 302. In addition, the coupling between the
flanged sleeve 318 and ring member 320 allow for pivotal movement
of the drive shaft 308 relative to the hub 302 as the assembly 300
rocks back and forth in the first and second directions D1, D2.
The ring member 320 is secured within an opening 322 disposed
within a top surface 324 of the hub 302, so that the central
portion 312 of the drive shaft 308 extends downwardly through the
chamber 314, as shown in FIG. 11.
Referring again to FIG. 12, the hub 302 may include first and
second portions or halves 302a, 302b, which may be secured together
using conventional fasteners such as screws or pins. Accordingly,
receiving members 326 may be provided in first portion 302a, and
internally threaded posts (not shown) may be provided in the second
portion 302b. Fasteners may extend through the receiving members
326 and into the aligned internally threaded posts, thereby
securing the first and second portions 302a, 302b together.
The second end 316 of the drive shaft 308 is coupled to the hanging
portion 306 via a coupling member 328. As shown, the coupling
member 328 includes a shelf 330 extending outwardly from a first
end 332 thereof, and a second opposite end 334 having an opening
336. The second end 316 of the drive shaft 308 is received and
secured within a sleeve 338, which in turn is received within a
bore 340 extending into the coupling member 328 and axially aligned
with the drive shaft 308. The sleeve 338 includes a central flange
342 that abuts the shelf 330 of the coupling member 328. A collar
344 fits over the central flange 342 and is secured to the shelf
330. The collar 344 may include engagement members 346. Internally
threaded posts 348 may be provided on the shelf 330, which are
received in engagement members 346 and secured thereto via threaded
fasteners (not shown). A resilient wear ring 350 may also be
provided intermediate the central flange 342 and the collar
344.
The second end 334 of the coupling member 328 is preferably
pivotally connected to the hanging portion 306. The hanging portion
306 includes a support bar 352 having an attachment mechanism
securable to the second end 334. As shown, the support bar 352
includes a central bracket 354 that is coupled to the second end
334 via a corresponding shaft (not shown), which passes through the
opening 336 in the second end 334 of the coupling member 328, and
permits the support bar 352 to pivot relative to the coupling
member 328.
Referring to FIG. 2, one or more entertainment elements 358 may be
coupled to the support bar 352. The entertainment elements 358 may
include but are not limited to plush figures, rigid figures,
geometric shapes, etc. Moreover, the entertainment elements 358 may
include stylized patterns, caricatures and colors representing a
specific theme, such as an underwater theme.
The entertainment elements 358 are coupled to the support bar 352
via connectors 360. The connectors 360 may be flexible, comprising
for example fabric string or elastic cord. Alternatively, the
connectors may be rigid. Alternatively, the entertainment elements
358 may be directly connected to the support bar 352. In addition,
one or more secondary support bars may be provided. As shown, a
second support bar 362 is coupled to support bar 352 via a
connector 360, and supports additional entertainment elements
358.
The motion portion 304 includes at least a first resilient
component coupled to the hanging portion 306 that effectuates
rotational motion of the hanging portion 306 about an axis A1 in a
third direction D3 when the support arm 200 moves in the first
direction D1 (see FIGS. 1 and 7). Preferably, the motion portion
304 also includes a second resilient component coupled to the
hanging portion 306, which effectuates rotational motion of the
hanging portion 306 about the axis A1 in the third direction D3
when the support arm 200 moves in the second direction D2. The
resilient components drive the hanging portion 306 in the third
direction D3 when the support arm 200 rocks back and forth in the
first and second directions D1, D2.
Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13A, the first resilient component may be
configured as a first spring 364 having a central coil 366 wound
around the drive shaft 308 and an end portion 368 extending
outwardly from the drive shaft 308 and into the chamber 314 of the
hub 302. The second resilient component may be configured as a
second spring 370 having a central coil 372 would around the drive
shaft 308 and an end portion 374 extending outwardly from the drive
shaft 308 and into the chamber 314. Preferably, the end portion 374
of the second spring 370 extends outwardly from the hanging portion
306 in a direction substantially opposite to the direction in which
the end portion 368 of the first spring 364 extends when the
support arm 200 is intermediate the first and second positions 18a,
20a, as shown in FIG. 13C. A washer 376 may be provided around the
drive shaft 308 and intermediate the central coil 366 of the first
spring 364 and the central coil 372 of the second spring 370.
The chamber 314 may be defined by first and second spaced walls
378, 380 extending outwardly from an inner surface 382 of the first
half 302a of the hub 302, and first and second spaced walls 384,
386 extending outwardly from an inner surface 388 of the second
half 302b of the hub 302. As shown in FIGS. 13A-13C, the first
walls 378, 384 are spaced from each other, and define first and
second spaced apart engagement surfaces 390, 392, respectively.
Likewise, the second walls 380, 386 are spaced from each other, and
define third and fourth spaced apart engagement surfaces 394, 396,
respectively. The end portion 368 of the first spring 364 extends
between the first and second engagement surfaces 390, 392. The end
portion 374 of the second spring 370 extends between the third and
fourth engagement surfaces 394, 396.
Pivotal and rotational motion of the drive shaft 308 will be
described with reference to FIGS. 13A-13C. As the support arm 200
pivots in the first direction D1 to the first position 18, the
hanging portion 306 also pivots in the first direction D1 (see FIG.
13A) due to the pivotal connection of the shaft 308 to the hub 302,
and due to the weight of the hanging portion 306. Once the support
arm reaches the first position 18, it then pivots in the second
direction D2, past an apex of the pivotal arc traversed by the
assembly 300 (see FIG. 13B), and to the second position 20 (see
FIG. 13C).
The shaft 308 pivots back and forth relative to the hub 302 between
a first position 18a (FIG. 13A), past a central position 19a (FIG.
13B), to a second position 20a (FIG. 13C). As the drive shaft 308
moves in the first direction D1 from the second position 20a toward
the first position 18a, the end portion 368 of the first spring 364
engages the first engagement surface 390, for example when the
drive shaft 308 reaches the central position 19a. As the drive
shaft 308 continues to move in the first direction D1, the force
applied against the end portion 368 by the first engagement surface
390 is transferred to the central coil 366. The central coil 366 is
coiled around the drive shaft 308 such that the transferred force
causes the central coil 366 to constrict and tighten around the
drive shaft 308 as it moves in the first direction D1. Thus, the
configuration of the first spring 364, and in particular the
configuration of the central coil 366 of the first spring 364, is
changed as the support arm 200 moves in the first direction D1.
The drive shaft 308 continues to move in first direction D1 after
the central coil 366 has tightened around the drive shaft 306.
Thus, the orientation and position of the central coil 366, and
angle at which the end portion 368 extends relative to the first
walls 378, 384, varies depending on the position of the central
coil 366 along the path of motion between the first position 18a
and the second position 20a. In addition, the distance between the
central coil 366 and the first engagement surface 390 varies
depending on its position along the path of motion between the
first position 18a and the second position 20a.
As the drive shaft 308 moves along its path of motion between the
first position 18a and the second position 20a, the end portion 368
pivots about the first engagement surface 390. The central coil
366, in turn, is caused to rotate about axis A1 as it is pivoted
relative to the first engagement surface 390. The drive shaft 308
is thereby rotated about axis A1 in the third direction D3, given
the central coil 366 is tightened around the drive shaft 308. Thus,
the change in configuration of the first spring 364 causes the
hanging portion 306 to move in the third direction D3.
The end portion 368 is preferably permitted to slide against the
first engagement surface 390 as the central coil 366 moves along
the path of motion, given the distance between the central coil 366
and the first engagement surface 390 varies depending on its
position along the path of motion. In this way, the path of motion
between the first position 18a and the second position 20a of the
central coil 366 remains substantially linear. At the same time,
the central coil 366 and the drive shaft 308 are caused to rotate
in the third direction D3 as they move in the first direction
D1.
Once the support arm 200 reaches the first position 18, it then
moves in the second direction D2, pivoting from the first position
18 back to the second position 20 (see FIG. 1). The central coil
366 and the drive shaft 308 likewise move in the second direction
D2, pivoting from the first position 18a (FIG. 13A) to the second
position 20a (FIG. 13C). As the drive shaft 308 moves in the second
direction D2, the end portion 368 of the first spring 364 moves
away from the first engagement surface 390 toward the second
engagement surface 392. The end portion 368 then engages the second
engagement surface 392. As the drive shaft 308 continues to move in
the second direction D2, the force applied against the end portion
368 by the second engagement surface 392 is again transferred to
the central coil 366. However, the transferred force causes the
central coil 366 to loosen from the drive shaft 308 as it moves in
the second direction D2.
As the drive shaft 308 moves along its path of motion from the
first position 18a and the second position 20a, the end portion 368
pivots about the second engagement surface 392, and is permitted to
slide against the second engagement surface 392. The central coil
366 is caused to rotate about axis A1 as it is pivoted relative to
the second engagement surface 390. However, the central coil 366
slides around the drive shaft 308, and therefore does not rotate
the drive shaft 308 when moving in the second direction D2 given it
is not tightened around the drive shaft 308. Thus, the first spring
364 does not drive rotation of the hanging portion 306 when the
support arm 200 moves in second direction D2.
The second spring 370 functions in a similar manner compared to the
first spring 364. However, because the end portion 374 of the
second spring 370 extends outwardly from the drive shaft 308 in a
direction substantially opposite to the direction in which the end
portion 368 of the first spring 364 extends, the change in
configuration of the second spring 370 due to movement of the
support arm 200 in the first and second directions D1, D2 is
inverse to that of the first spring 364.
Specifically, as the drive shaft 308 moves in the first direction
D1 from the second position 20a (FIG. 13C) toward the first
position 18a (FIG. 13A), the end portion 374 of the second spring
370 engages the third engagement surface 394. As the drive shaft
308 continues to move in the first direction D1, the force applied
against the end portion 374 by the third engagement surface 394 is
transferred to the central coil 372. The central coil 372 is coiled
around the drive shaft 308 such that the transferred force causes
the central coil 372 to loosen from around the drive shaft 308 as
it moves in the first direction D1. Thus, the configuration of the
second spring 370, and in particular the configuration of the
central coil 372, is changed as the support arm 200 moves in the
first direction D1.
The drive shaft 308 continues to move in first direction D1 after
the central coil 372 has been loosened from around the drive shaft
308. The orientation and position of the central coil 372, and
angle at which the end portion 374 extends relative to the second
walls 380, 386, varies depending on the position of the central
coil 372 along the path of motion between the first position 18a
and the second position 20a. In addition, the distance between the
central coil 372 and the third engagement surface 394 varies
depending on its position along the path of motion between the
first position 18a and the second position 20a.
As the drive shaft 308 moves along its path of motion from the
second position 20a to the first position 18a, the end portion 374
pivots about the third engagement surface 394. The central coil
372, in turn, is caused to rotate about axis A1 as it is pivoted
relative to the third engagement surface 394. However, the central
coil 372, having been loosened from around the drive shaft 308,
slides about the drive shaft 308. As such, the second spring 370
does not drive rotation of the hanging portion 306 when the support
arm 200 moves in first direction D1.
The end portion 374 is preferably permitted to slide against the
third engagement surface 394 as the central coil 372 moves along
the path of motion, given the distance between the central coil 372
and the third engagement surface 394 varies depending on its
position along the path of motion. In this way, the path of motion
between the first position 18a and the second position 20a of the
central coil 372 remains substantially linear.
Once the support arm 200 reaches the first position 18, it then
moves in the second direction D2, pivoting from the first position
18 back to the second position 20 (see FIG. 1). The central coil
372 and the drive shaft 308 likewise move in the second direction
D2, pivoting from the first position 18a to the second position
20a. As the drive shaft 308 moves in the second direction D2, the
end portion 374 of the second spring 370 moves away from the third
engagement surface 394 and toward the fourth engagement surface
396. The end portion 374 then engages the fourth engagement surface
396. As the drive shaft 308 continues to move in the second
direction D2, the force applied against the end portion 374 by the
fourth engagement surface 396 is transferred to the central coil
372. The central coil 372 is coiled around the drive shaft 308 such
that the transferred force causes the central coil 372 to constrict
and tighten around the drive shaft 306 as it moves in the second
direction D2.
The hanging portion 306 continues to move in second direction D2
after the central coil 372 has tightened around the drive shaft
306. As the drive shaft 308 moves along its path of motion between
the first position 18a and the second position 20a, the end portion
374 pivots about the fourth engagement surface 396. The central
coil 372, in turn, is caused to rotate about axis A1 as it is
pivoted relative to the fourth engagement surface 396. The drive
shaft 308 is thereby rotated about axis A1 in the third direction
D3, given the central coil 372 is tightened around the drive shaft
308. Thus, the change in configuration of the second spring 370
causes the hanging portion 306 to move in the third direction
D3.
The inverse relationship of the resilient components relative to
the drive shaft 308 provide rotational movement in the third
direction when the support arm moves in either the first direction
D1 or the second direction D2. Movement of the support arm 200 in
the first direction D1 causes the first resilient component (e.g.
spring 364) to change its configuration. Movement of the support
arm 200 in the second direction D2 causes the second resilient
component (e.g. spring 370) to change its configuration. This
change in configuration of each of the first and second resilient
components causes rotational movement of the hanging portion 306 in
the third direction D3.
It should be understood however that assembly 300 need not include
two resilient components. For example, a single resilient component
may be provided, which drives rotation of the hanging portion 306
in the third direction D3 only when the support arm moves in the
first direction D1 but not in the second direction D2 (or vice
versa).
Referring to FIG. 14, the assembly 300 may further include an outer
shell 398 encasing the hub 302 and a portion of the motion portion
304. The outer shell 398 includes an opening 400 in an underside
thereof through which the coupling member 328 of the motion portion
306 extends. The outer shell 398 may also include an arm 402 having
a bore 404 in which the second end portion 206 of the support arm
200 is received and secured.
Although the disclosed inventions are illustrated and described
herein as embodied in one or more specific examples, it is
nevertheless not intended to be limited to the details shown, since
various modifications and structural changes may be made therein
without departing from the scope of the inventions and within the
scope and range of equivalents of the claims. Accordingly, it is
appropriate that the appended claims be construed broadly and in a
manner consistent with the scope of the disclosure as set forth in
the following claims.
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